Guwahati, 27 February (HS): In a concerted effort to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis, the National Health Mission (NHM), Assam on Friday organized a one-day Media Sensitization Workshop at its Conference Hall in Guwahati. The initiative aligns with the vision of the Prime Minister’s TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and aims to mobilize social-level action through responsible and informed media engagement.

The workshop brought together representatives from print, electronic and digital media platforms to deliberate on strategies for spreading awareness and countering stigma associated with tuberculosis. Health officials highlighted the crucial role of the media in disseminating accurate information and encouraging community participation in the elimination drive.

Director of Health Services, Assam, Dr. Umesh Phangcho, in his address, underlined the need to combat TB-related stigma and ensure that correct messages reach the grassroots. He urged media organizations and line departments to actively promote awareness about schemes available under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). He also stressed the importance of extending nutritional, psychosocial, vocational and livelihood support to TB patients and their families.

Mission Director of NHM Assam, Dr. Lakshmanan S., briefed participants on the ongoing activities under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the state. He emphasized publicizing the availability of free government services for TB diagnosis and treatment. Highlighting technological advancements, he pointed to the increased use of upfront NAAT testing over conventional microscopy to ensure faster reporting and more accurate diagnosis.

Senior journalists from various regional media houses, officials of NHM Assam, the State Tuberculosis Officer and development partners attended the programme. The session concluded with an appeal to encourage participation as “Ni-kshay Mitras” — individuals or organizations willing to adopt TB patients and provide supplementary nutritional and psychosocial assistance.

Photo Caption: Media representatives and NHM Assam officials during the one-day Media Sensitization Workshop at the NHM Conference Hall in Guwahati on Thursday.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash